Moonbin’s memorial space shut down after fans complain

Fantagio, the agency representing the late ASTRO member Moonbin, announced the closure of a memorial space dedicated to the late K-pop star, following a controversy.

Moonbin, a notable dancer and vocalist of the K-pop boy band, passed away on April 19 at the age of 25.

The memorial, initially located at Gukcheong Temple near Seoul, was recently moved to Seonun Temple in Gochang, North Jeolla Province, sparking speculation among fans.

In a statement released on Sunday on ASTRO’s official fan site, the agency revealed its decision to close down the space at Seonun Temple, which had opened on Saturday, a day before the decision to shut it down was disclosed.

“After thorough deliberation, we have resolved to promptly shut down the memorial space, effective from 8 p.m. on Dec. 3, in consideration of the sentiments expressed by AROHA (ASTRO’s official fandom),” the agency said in the statement.

Previously, Fantagio decided to move the memorial space to a venue farther from Seoul than the original place just six months after the initial establishment.

The decision drew additional criticism amid allegations that Fantagio and Seonun Temple had entered into a business agreement in September. These accusations suggested the conversion of the deceased’s cherished items into tourism products, seemingly under the guise of fostering the development of the K-pop industry.

Fantagio dispelled the accusations regarding the alleged connection.

“We want to clarify that we have no agreements, contracts or financial interests with Seonun Temple,” the statement read.